Patent attributes
Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a modular optical device with a component insert for sending and/or receiving optical signals. A first fabricated package includes a light source for generating optical signals and/or a light detector for detecting received optical signals. A second fabricated package includes an opening for accepting circuitry. A lead frame mechanically connects the first fabricated package to the second fabricated package and electrically connects the light source and/or the light detector in the first fabricated package to contacts exposed in the opening of the second fabricated package. A component insert is mechanically coupled to the second fabricated package and electrically coupled to the exposed contacts for electrical interoperation with the light source and/or the light detector to transfer optical signals. The modular optical device can be coupled to a substrate configured to be received within a standard host system slot.